Carved "Boo" Jar

Carved "Boo" Jar

This ode to the iconic Ball Mason jar features "fireflies" courtesy of string lights.

How to make it: Cut a hole in the bottom of the gourd and scoop out pulp and seeds. Tape transfer paper ($6.99; michaels.com) onto the surface, followed by our downloadable jar sketch. Trace design using a pencil; remove papers. Using an X-Acto knife ($6.96; amazon.com), follow the transferred image to chisel the outline of the jar onto the pumpkin, then use a linoleum cutter ($13.35; amazon.com) to gently shave the surrounding area as shown. For fireflies, cut several holes with a small clay hole cutter ($7.99; amazon.com), then illuminate with battery-powered lights.

Thumbtack Message

Thumbtack Message

Create a tack-o'-lantern with this office store staple.

How to make it: Paint pumpkin desired color in a matte finish (Annie Sloan Chalk Paint in Florence; anniesloan.com for stores). Write letters with an erasable wax pencil, then use a hammer to tap in nailheads along the script. (The shorter the word, the more clearly it will read.)